When that day comes, youll want to be ready to mitigate the consequences.
Between changing passwords and freezing your credit reports, theres a lot to get done.
Assess the Damage
What did the hackers get away with?
Also, think about how stolen data might impact other sites and services you frequent.
you might do that atAnnualCreditReport.com.
And check your bank statements.
Credit reports wont catch everything, for example if someone stole money from your banking accounts or investment funds.
If you see something shady, call your bank or brokerage immediately.
when a data breach at a place like Mint would really mess up everyones financial lives.
Stop Using the Same Password Everywhere
Its 2018.
Theres no reason why you should be using the same, easy-to-throw in password or passphrase across multiple sites.
it’s possible for you to write anything you want.
@) every time you create a new account somewhere.
Create strong, unique passwords for every service and youll limit the potential fallout whenever one gets hacked.
(And if you dont use 1Password, you might alwayslook this up yourself.)
Having your data stolen by an unknown party can be a great reminder of the power of two-factor authentication.
The sender already may have some personal information about you, stolen as part of a data breach.
Dont let that fool you.
Legitimate companies dont ask for sensitive personal data via email or text.
Just because fraudsters havent tried to use your info yet doesnt mean they wont.
If your information hasnt been stolen yet, be discerning.
When in doubt, ask why the SSN is necessary or leave the space for it blank, suggestsKiplinger.
Some companies want the number so they can track you down in case you fail to pay bills.
An alternative identifiersay, your phone numbermay suffice.
Another tip: IRS scammers dont just call during tax seasonyou always need to be on alert.
Put a reminder in your calendar right now.
This is a time-consuming process, but ultimately its time well spent.
